Original photo by Kristyna Sindelkova/ iStock
One of the oddest things about corn is the even number of rows (i.e., the kernels running lengthwise from end to end) you’ll find on almost every single ear. This is due to corn’s innate genetic programming, which instructs each individual ridge of kernels to double during early development (assuming normal growth conditions).
The ridges continue to double until the cob is full, as there’s virtually always room for each row to double at least once barring any rare and prohibitive growth abnormalities. This results in an even total number of rows, irrespective of how many rows there were to begin with. These rows typically form during the early weeks of the vegetative process, several months before the plant reaches maturity and is ready to be harvested.
Oops, incorrect!
It's a factCorn falls into a variety of biological categories. The kernels humans eat are considered fruits, as they come from the ovary of a flowering plant, while the stalks and leaves consumed by livestock are starchy vegetables, and mature kernels harvested for popcorn or cornmeal are grains.
While the total number of rows will almost certainly be even, you may end up with eight, 14, or 20 depending on external growth conditions (e.g., water supply, nutrient deficiencies, crop disease, etc.). Those same factors affect the number of kernels in each row as well. According to FoodReference.com, a typical ear will have about 800 kernels and 16 rows.
Though an even number of rows is the overwhelming standard, it’s entirely possible for there to be an odd number in rare circumstances. Certain inbred varieties may develop genetic mutations that inhibit proper growth. Abnormal weather and insect infestations can also stymie corn’s natural biological development, resulting in an odd total number. However, those instances are uncommon and far from the norm.
Numbers Don't Lie
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______ produces the most corn of any U.S. state.
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Iowa produces the most corn of any U.S. state.
“The World’s Only Corn Palace” is located in South Dakota.
The small city of Mitchell, South Dakota, has roughly 15,000 residents, but it attracts about 500,000 tourists each year to visit a unique attraction — the Corn Palace. Self-described as the “world’s only” palatial corn structure, this local landmark was first established in 1892 to honor the state’s proud agricultural industry. It became the site of a popular fall harvest festival and was later expanded to accommodate larger crowds.
The current structure dates to 1921 and is best known for its decorative exterior murals that are based on a new theme each year. Those murals are made not from paint, but from 12 colorful varieties of corn. Past themes include “Famous South Dakotans,” “Scenes of the Old West,” and “Salute to Rodeo.” Oddly, the interior of the Corn Palace contains a basketball court, which USA Today named among the top 10 places in the country for high school basketball.
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Inbox Studio, and previously contributed to television programs such as "Late Show With David Letterman" and "Impractical Jokers." Bennett is also a devoted New York Yankees and New Jersey Devils fan, and thinks plain seltzer is the best drink ever invented.
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